Addiction. A harmful pattern of use characterized by tolerance,
withdrawal, using more of the substance than intended, persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop using, significant periods of time spent using or obtaining the substance at the expense of other major life responsibilities, and continuing to use despite the knowledge of significant adverse effects on your life.

Alcoholism. Alcoholism is a disease that effects mind, body & spirit. One loses control of alcohol use, is preoccupied w it, spends considerable time consuming it & continues to drink in spite of problems related to it's use. One may drink > intended & over time may need to drink ^ amounts of alcohol to obtain the same effect. Attempts to cut down on or to stop use may have been unsuccessful. Alcoholism >